An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Sun Bodhisattva (Nikkō Bosatsu)c. 800
Bodhisattvas are beings who have attained enlightenment but delay entry into Buddhahood until they have fulfilled their varied vows to aid others along the path to enlightenment. The flowing robes and curving posture of this figure were inspired by Chinese Buddhist sculpture. However, the interplay of the wood grain in this single block of yew with the artist’s subtle carving is a Japanese innovation. Originally paired with the Moon Bodhisattva (Gekkō Bosatsu), this figure likely flanked a sculpture of the Medicine Master Buddha (Yakushi Nyorai).
Japanese nutmeg-yew, or <em>kaya</em>, was used as a replacement for the unobtainable sandalwood of which small Buddhist sculptures imported from China were made.
Japanese nutmeg-yew wood with traces of color and gold
Overall: 46.7 cm (18 3/8 in.)
John L. Severance Fund
In a tranquil temple, where sunlight filters through the leaves of a gnarled old tree, a figure stands serenely. This is a Bodhisattva, a being who has wandered far along the path of enlightenment. Unlike the more solitary Buddhas who attain nirvana, Bodhisattvas pause at the threshold of transcendence, choosing instead to linger in the world. They are driven by a profound vow—to guide and uplift others towards their own enlightenment.
As you gaze upon the figure, you notice the flowing robes that cascade gracefully around it, echoing the elegance found in ancient Chinese Buddhist sculptures. Their gentle draping suggests a sense of movement, as if a soft breeze has come to life, weaving through the fabric of the figure's existence. Every curve of the posture invites contemplation, as if the Bodhisattva itself is embodying the very essence of compassion.
But peer a little closer, and you’ll discover the wood from which this figure is carved tells a tale of its own. It is a single block of yew, rich in texture, the grain dancing with life beneath the artist’s delicate touch. This subtle carving is a touchstone of Japanese artistry—a testament to the meticulous handwork that breathes life into inanimate wood. It’s as if the Bodhisattva has emerged from the depths of ancient forests, inviting you to pause in reverence.
Once, this figure graced the side of the Moon Bodhisattva, Gekkō Bosatsu, creating a harmonious dance of enlightenment against the backdrop of a bigger narrative: the Medicine Master Buddha, Yakushi Nyorai. Together, they formed a trio - guardians of healing, wisdom, and illumination in the dimly lit corners of the temple.
In every glance, you feel their resonance, the echoes of their vows to help others, whispering through time. This Bodhisattva does not stand alone; it is part of a lineage of compassion, a reminder that enlightenment is not simply a destination, but a pathway shared by all of us.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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